Student Visa Attorney in Chicago — F-1 & J-1 Visas
International students contribute enormously to U.S. higher education and the American economy. At Liberum Law, our student visa attorneys in Chicago help prospective and current international students with F-1 and J-1 visa applications, maintaining status, employment authorization, and transitioning to work visas after graduation.
Our student visa services cover F-1 student visa applications and consular interview preparation, transfer between schools while maintaining F-1 status, Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) applications, STEM OPT extension applications for qualifying STEM graduates, J-1 exchange visitor visa matters, J-1 two-year home residency requirement waivers, reinstatement after falling out of status, and transition planning from student status to H-1B, O-1, or other work visa categories.
Contact our student visa attorneys at Liberum Law for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What student visas does the U.S. offer?
F-1: academic students (universities, colleges, high schools, language programs). M-1: vocational students. J-1: exchange visitors (including students in approved exchange programs). Each has different work, travel, and status rules.
Can student visa holders work in the U.S.?
F-1: on-campus work (20 hrs/week during studies, unlimited during breaks), Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT — 12 months post-graduation, 36 months for STEM). Severe restrictions on off-campus work. M-1: very limited employment.
What is OPT and STEM OPT extension?
OPT (Optional Practical Training): 12 months of work authorization in your field of study, used after graduation. STEM OPT: 24-month extension for graduates in STEM fields (designated CIP codes), totaling 36 months. Application timing is critical — late filing forfeits eligibility.
Can I bring family on a student visa?
Yes. F-2 dependents (spouse, unmarried children under 21) can accompany F-1 students. F-2 spouses cannot work; F-2 children can attend K-12 schools. Limited part-time studies allowed for F-2 spouses but not full degree programs.
How can students transition from student visa to green card?
Common paths: H-1B after OPT (subject to lottery), O-1 if extraordinary ability, EB-2 NIW for advanced degree holders with national-interest research, marriage to U.S. citizen/LPR, family sponsorship, or employer sponsorship through PERM. We help students plan transitions throughout their studies.
